WEEK 2 Why Relationships Come Before Learning

When we think about learning, we often think about numbers, letters, books, construction, creative activities or exploring the natural world.

But there is something that comes before all of these things:

Relationships.

A child who feels safe, understood and valued is much more able to explore their environment, try something new, take risks, communicate their ideas and develop their independence.

Getting to know the child

At Happy Kids, we don’t want to simply know what a child can do.

We want to know the child.

What makes them laugh?

What are they fascinated by?

What helps them feel safe?

What are they trying to communicate?

What makes them curious?

What are they particularly good at?

What might they find difficult?

These little pieces of knowledge help us to understand how best to support each individual child.

The importance of the key person

The key person relationship provides an important sense of security.

It is about having an adult who knows you well, notices the little things and is there to support you when you need reassurance or encouragement.

Of course, children develop warm relationships with all of our practitioners, but having those particularly strong connections helps children to feel that they truly belong.

Connection in everyday moments

Relationships aren’t built through big gestures.

They are built through hundreds of small moments.

A practitioner sitting alongside a child while they explore.

Listening carefully to their story.

Joining their game when invited.

Noticing when they are struggling.

Celebrating their achievement.

Giving them a reassuring smile when they look across the room.

These moments tell children:

“I see you. I hear you. You matter.”

And when children feel that way, they are more ready to explore the world around them.

Until next week... The Happy Kids' Team